Can presidents drive? Here’s why Trump says he can’t after buying a Tesla

LOS ANGELES - President Donald Trump made headlines this week when he announced his decision to purchase a Tesla Model S. However, while inspecting the vehicle outside the White House alongside Elon Musk, Trump revealed that he "can’t drive it."

"I’m gonna buy one. Now here’s the bad news—I’m not allowed to drive. And I love to drive cars," Trump said, adding that the Tesla would instead be kept at the White House for his staff to use.

Why can’t U.S. presidents drive?

The backstory:

Like all former U.S. presidents, Trump is barred from driving on public roads due to strict Secret Service security measures. The rule is part of the Former Presidents Act of 1958, which ensures former presidents remain under protection for life. The restriction applies not just while they are in office but even after leaving the White House.

According to The Times, presidents are only permitted to drive on private property, such as golf courses or within controlled estates. Otherwise, they are required to be chauffeured in armored vehicles like "The Beast," the presidential state car.

How Trump’s Tesla ties into his political strategy

What they're saying:

Trump’s Tesla purchase comes amid growing financial challenges for the electric vehicle company. Tesla’s stock has struggled in recent months, and protests have erupted at showrooms over Musk’s ties to Trump’s administration.

By buying a Tesla, Trump signaled support for Musk, who now leads the Department of Government Efficiency under Trump’s second term. On Tuesday, Trump inspected several Tesla models before settling on a red Model S, telling Musk: "The one I like is that one." He also insisted he would pay full price, stating, "I don’t want a discount."

FILE - President Donald Trump and White House Senior Advisor, Tesla and SpaceX CEO Elon Musk sit in a Tesla Model S on the South Lawn of the White House on March 11, 2025 in Washington, DC.  (Photo by Andrew Harnik/Getty Images)

According to The Guardian, Trump’s move is seen as a political gesture to bolster Musk, whose company has faced backlash over its handling of labor disputes and political affiliations.

The history of presidents and driving bans

Timeline:

While the restrictions aim to ensure presidential safety, some former presidents have expressed frustration. Joe Biden, a known car enthusiast, once said he "misses being able to drive" his classic 1967 Corvette Stingray.

• 1958 – The Former Presidents Act was passed, providing lifetime security protection, including driving restrictions, for ex-presidents.
• 1993 – Bill Clinton was the last sitting president to drive on public roads before the rule was strictly enforced.
• 2009 – Barack Obama gave up driving under Secret Service orders after being elected.
• 2025 – Donald Trump reiterates the driving ban while purchasing a Tesla.

Will presidents ever be able to drive again?

What's next:

Despite Trump’s purchase, his new Tesla Model S will remain unused by him—at least on public roads. Like all former U.S. presidents, Trump is prohibited from driving due to security concerns enforced by the Secret Service. While there’s no indication that this rule will change anytime soon, his staff will be able to use the vehicle at the White House.

As for Tesla, Trump’s endorsement comes at a pivotal moment for the company, which has faced declining sales and investor uncertainty. Whether his public support will boost Tesla’s market performance remains to be seen.